Farm Bill Deal Protects California Egg Law

A compromise on the federal farm bill has protected California’s egg law that requires hens have enough room to spread their wings. Congressional negotiators rejected the so-called "King Amendment" that was part of the House version of the farm bill.

Supporters of the King amendment say it would have prevented a state from interfering with another state’s production of agricultural products.

Opponents say it would have nullified not just California’s egg law, but dozens of other laws that regulate food and animal welfare.

Sonoma County egg farmer Arnie Rieble says it’s been a long fight against a law that he says would have given out of state egg producers an unfair advantage.

“I’m glad to see that it’s over. At least I think that it’s over, it hasn’t been voted on yet, that’s got to happen," says Rieble. "But it’s going to be an up or down vote so I’m told, so they’re not going to be able to add any amendments to the current language, that’s a good thing.”

The amendment was led by Republican Steve King of Iowa. Iowa is the largest egg-producing state in the nation.